Looking for the best things to do on Oahu with Kids? Oahu is the perfect destination for a family adventure, offering a mix of exciting activities, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. From iconic beaches to thrilling tours and cultural experiences, Oahu provides countless opportunities to create lasting memories with your little ones. Whether you’re relaxing on Waikiki Beach or exploring historical landmarks like Pearl Harbor, this guide will help you discover the top things to do on Oahu that are sure to delight every member of your family.
Why Oahu?
One of the first steps in planning a Hawaiian vacation is choosing which island to visit. Hawaii has 137 recognized islands, but only four major ones—Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii—are accessible to tourists. Each offers something unique, so we decided to start with Oahu, especially since Buttercup had just studied Pearl Harbor. Known as “The Gathering Place,” Oahu blends rich history with natural beauty. Its tropical breezes, lush greenery, and volcanic landscapes set a stunning scene. From lively Waikiki Beach to the peaceful shores of Lanikai, the island’s mix of rugged cliffs and soft sand offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
We enjoyed 7 unforgettable days on Oahu, the third largest island in Hawaii and the location of the state’s capital, Honolulu. From the moment we arrived on this island, we felt its magic. There was a special spirit and cultural respect we experienced from the Hawaiians. They genuinely embody the incredible spirit of Aloha, which we soon realized was not just a greeting, but a way of life.
Things to Do on Oahu with Kids - Day 1: Getting Orientated
Our Hawaiian journey kicked off with a non-stop flight from Atlanta to Honolulu—a nearly 10-hour haul that tested our endurance. While the flight was long and tiring, we managed to sneak in some rest somewhere over the Pacific. We landed at 1:30 p.m. local time, and from the moment we stepped off the plane, the warm island breeze and the vibrant energy of Oahu instantly revived us. Paradise had arrived!
Navigating the airport was a breeze, and we quickly connected with our pre-arranged ride. Just 20 minutes later, we were cruising through the palm-lined streets of Honolulu en route to our tropical home for the week: the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.
Pre-Arrange Your Airport Transfer
Pre-Arrange Your Airport Transfer
Hilton Hawaiian Village
This resort is more than just a hotel—it’s truly a self-contained beachfront oasis. Spanning several towers with a variety of restaurants, shops, and direct beach access, it offers everything you need for a convenient, family-friendly, and activity-packed stay. As Hilton Diamond members, we were thrilled to be upgraded to an oceanfront room on the 19th floor of the iconic Rainbow Tower (Room R1911). Though the space was cozy, the panoramic views of the Pacific and the sunrise each morning made it feel like a slice of heaven.
After a seamless check-in, we wasted no time embracing island life. With the beach just steps from our elevator, we swapped travel clothes for swimsuits and ran straight to the shore. The rest of the afternoon was pure bliss—splashing in the warm ocean waves, building sandcastles, and soaking in our first Hawaiian sunset.
Dinner at Aoki Teppanyaki Hibachi
For dinner, we headed to Aoki Teppanyaki Hibachi, a lively, interactive dining experience and a personal favorite of Buttercup’s. The sizzling showmanship and delicious flavors delivered exactly what we’d hoped for from a hibachi night out.
ABC Stores
Before calling it a night, we popped into the nearby ABC Store. ABC Stores are everywhere and are a Waikiki staple! You can find everything here!! We stopped for some beach essentials for tomorrow: rafts, sand toys, and a bodyboard.
Things to Do on Oahu with Kids - Day 2: Swimming, Seals and Chickens
Discovering Rocky the Monk Seal
Our first full day on Oahu began with a surprise that perfectly captured the spirit of the islands. As we headed out to the beach at sunrise, we noticed a small crowd gathered around something unusual near the shoreline. Lying peacefully in the sand was Rocky. Rocky isn’t just any seal … she’s a well-known figure in Waikiki, especially after giving birth to a pup right on the beach in 2017, drawing national attention. Since then, she’s continued to return to the shores near the Hilton Hawaiian Village to rest, usually hauling out in the evening and slipping back into the ocean by morning.
Hawaiian monk seals are among the most endangered marine mammals in the world, with an estimated population of just 1,500. Native only to Hawaii, they are protected under the Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Encounters like this are rare and incredibly special. Seeing Rocky was a humbling and awe-inspiring reminder of Hawaii’s unique wildlife and the importance of protecting it.
Beaches, Pools, and the Lagoon
We spent the day immersing ourselves in the beauty and vibrancy of Oahu, basking under the warm Hawaiian sun and enjoying everything the island has to offer. The ocean right outside HHV shimmered like a sea of diamonds, inviting us to dive in and embrace the waves. We spent hours splashing around in the resort’s pools, with laughter echoing through the air, amplifying the joy of our tropical paradise escape.
We decided to explore the resort’s lagoon next. To our surprise, the water was noticeably cooler than we expected, sending a few shivers down our spines. Additionally, the lagoon’s slimy bottom made it a bit less inviting than the crystal-clear ocean, prompting us to quickly head back to the beach. Despite this small setback, the day remained filled with unforgettable moments spent under the endless blue Hawaiian sky.
Exploring Waikiki
Later in the day, we took a leisurely stroll through the streets of Waikiki. As we wandered, we were greeted by a delightful and quirky sight—wild chickens strutting freely through the area. These feathered residents are a unique aspect of Oahu’s wildlife, and their presence has an interesting history. Once domesticated, these chickens were released when the sugar plantation industry declined. The aftermath of hurricanes like Iniki in 1992 only expanded their numbers, as the storms destroyed chicken coops and allowed the birds to flourish in the wild. Today, they roam freely around Waikiki, adding a charming and unexpected element to the island’s lively atmosphere.
Dinner at Hula Grill Waikiki
For dinner, we made reservations at Hula Grill Waikiki, a delightful oceanside restaurant. The atmosphere was perfect as we watched the sunset transform the sky into a canvas of vibrant colors. We couldn’t resist saving room for dessert, and the famous Hula Pie exceeded our expectations, making it a sweet ending to a perfect day.
Things to Do on Oahu with Kids - Day 3: Exploring the North Shore
On day three, we set out to explore the iconic North Shore of Oahu with Kevo’s Beach Bus, led by our guide Kevin. What drew me to this tour was its claim that “we’re the tour for those who don’t like tours”. It sounded like the perfect fit for our adventurous crew. The tour was largely based on outside of the box adventure, which was perfect! In all, our crew still raves about Kevos’ Beach Bus Tour and ranks it up among our best tours – which is saying a lot since we have taken countless tours during our adventures!!!
Follow along on our post “Discover the Best 6 Things to Do on the North Shore of Oahu” to learn more.
Pipeline Beach
Our adventure began at the iconic Pipeline Beach on Oahu’s North Shore, famous for its world-class waves and surf culture. Though we missed the thrilling winter surf contests, the calm late September waters were perfect for swimming. Pipeline is renowned for its powerful barrels, drawing surfers from around the globe, and its stunning backdrop of golden sand and crystal-clear ocean. This beach, long on my “must-see” list, lived up to its reputation, offering both the beauty of nature and the vibrant energy of the surf community.
Waimea Bay
After an epic stop at Pipeline Beach, we made our way to the legendary Waimea Bay. Framed by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, this iconic spot is famous for cliff jumping, drawing thrill-seekers from all over. With jumps ranging from 5 to 20 feet, there’s something for every level of daredevil. While Dustin and Buttercup launched themselves into the turquoise water from the highest peaks, our fearless Spider Monkey found her perfect place to jump.
Laniakea Beach
Next up: a bucket list dream come true … Laniakea Beach, better known as Turtle Beach! This North Shore gem is a sanctuary for the endangered Hawaiian
From the moment we hit the sand, we were in awe. Giant honu floated in the waves and lounged on the shore like living legends. Though the stirred-up sand made snorkeling tough, the real magic was watching them from the beach. As animal lovers, seeing these majestic creatures in the wild was unforgettable. With its peaceful energy and incredible wildlife, Turtle Beach became one of the most soul-stirring highlights of our North Shore adventure.
Anahulu River
Our next stop was the Anahulu River area, renowned as one of the most popular kayaking spots on North Shore Oahu, thanks to its typically calm waters and easy access. It’s an ideal playground for beginners and those seeking a leisurely, sun-soaked paddle. The entrance to the Anahulu River is marked by the iconic Rainbow Bridge, a local favorite for adventurous bridge-jumping! On our return trip, we couldn’t resist the thrill and joined in on the fun, leaping into the sparkling waters below. Just a little further down the river, we stumbled upon a rope swing that Dustin and Buttercup eagerly tried out, adding a splash of adrenaline to our paddle boarding adventure!
Lunch at Tsue’s Farm
Then it was time for a local lunch at Tsue’s Farm. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of famous North Shore shrimp and an array of other mouthwatering local dishes that danced on our taste buds. The girls ventured into the farm, where they were able to feed the friendly tortoises.
Dole Plantation
After lunch, anticipation bubbled as we headed to our next thrilling destination: the Dole Plantation! There, we indulged in the iconic and refreshing Dole Whip, a perfect treat to cool us down and sweeten our adventure!
Aloha Tower Marketplace
We made an unexpected stop at the Aloha Tower Marketplace, where the vibrant atmosphere was alive with the hungry birds and vibrant fish. It turned out to be an unforgettable highlight of our tour, especially for Buttercup!
Kakaako Waterfront Park
We wrapped up our adventure with an invigorating yet somewhat daunting swim at Kakaako Waterfront Park. We took group photos at this location, but due to the waves and water depth, the girls and I exited the water fairly quickly.
Things to Do on Oahu with Kids - Day 4: Epic UTV Adventure
You Don't Want to Miss This UTV Tour!
The Best UTV Tour in Oahu!
Follow along on our post “Why the Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour Tops All Oahu Hawaii ATV Tours” to learn more.
Kualoa Ranch
On day four, we dove into adventure at the stunning Kualoa Ranch on Oahu’s lush eastern coast.
We opted for the self-driving UTV tour, a non-narrated, fully immersive, and pure adrenaline. After a warm welcome and a quick safety briefing, we geared up, jumped into our rugged UTV, and hit the trail. For the next two hours, we roared through vast green valleys and climbed up dramatic mountain paths, surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery and the occasional imaginary dinosaur lurking in the brush.
Every twist and turn revealed iconic filming locations, making it feel like we’d stepped right into the movies. We recognized scenes from Jurassic World, LOST, and more. With sweeping views of Kaneohe Bay and the towering cliffs around us, it was hard to tell what was more thrilling … the ride or the views.
Kualoa Ranch delivered an unforgettable mix of natural beauty, pop culture magic, and pulse-pounding excitement. A must-do for any Oahu adventure.
Dinner at Lulu’s Waikiki
After our return transfer, we concluded our day of mountainous adventures with dinner at Lulu’s Waikiki. The casual atmosphere and ocean views made it an ideal spot to reflect on our adventures. The restaurant’s seafood recommendations were spot-on, leaving us satisfied and happy.
Things to Do on Oahu with Kids - Day 5: Snorkeling & Luau
You Don't Want to Miss This Snorkeling Adventure!
You Don't Want to Miss This Snorkeling Adventure!
Hanauma Bay
Day five was an exhilarating highlight of our trip! We began our day with an early morning visit to the breathtaking Hanauma Bay for some snorkeling. The moment we finished the safety video, excitement surged through us as we made our way down the hill to the lower level and plunged into the world of snorkeling. The underwater experience was nothing short of mesmerizing as we swam among vibrant, colorful fish. It truly felt like we had stepped into an underwater paradise, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of brightly colored fish dancing through the crystal-clear waters! Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay was an absolutely breathtaking experience
Our return transfer was set for 12 noon, which turned out to be the ideal time for our adventurous crew. It gave us the perfect window to explore both sides of the bay, play in the soft, warm sand, and sneak out of the park before the crowds fully descended. What an exhilarating day filled with underwater exploration and unforgettable memories!
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Guide for a Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Adventure” to learn more.
Chief’s Luau
That evening, we made a last-minute switch and attended Chief’s Luau instead of the HHV luau, due to uncertainty around a workers’ strike. I booked the Royal Experience online the day before, which included front-row seating, a fresh flower lei, three mai tais, a beach towel souvenir, and round-trip transportation.
Dinner was plentiful and delicious, with a variety of dishes showcasing the bold, vibrant flavors of Polynesian cuisine.
But the real star was the show. From fire dancers to hula, the performance was spectacular and full of energy, color, and heart. The music, storytelling, and powerful choreography brought the spirit of Polynesia to life.
You Don't Want to Miss This Luau!
You Don't Want to Miss This Luau!
You Don't Want to Miss This Luau!
You Don't Want to Miss This Luau!
Things to Do on Oahu with Kids - Day 6: Pearl Harbor
We began a more reflective day with a visit to Pearl Harbor, a powerful and emotional site that marks a turning point in history. On December 7, 1941, over 300 Japanese aircraft attacked the U.S. naval base, sinking or damaging eight battleships and propelling the U.S. into World War II. Today, the area is preserved as the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument.
The most visited site is the USS Arizona Memorial. While access is free, tickets are limited and should be reserved exactly 60 days in advance via the official website (released daily at 3 p.m. HST). The process can be confusing, with dozens of third-party options and conflicting info. I recommend first securing your USS Arizona tickets, then building an itinerary around that time. To experience more of the site, try the Passport to Pearl Harbor, which includes access to the Battleship Missouri Memorial, Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, an audio tour, and the Virtual Reality experience.
You Don't Want to Miss This Tour!
You Don't Want to Miss This Tour!
Visitor Center Exhibits
We took an Uber to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where history immediately came to life. Armed with audio guides, we stepped into a powerful journey through time, immersing ourselves in the events of December 7, 1941.
The exhibits were compelling and filled with haunting photos, personal stories, and artifacts that vividly portrayed the lead-up to the attack, the chaos of that morning, and the lasting impact it had on the world. Interactive displays and detailed narratives gave voice to the bravery of those who lived through it. Each step through the center deepened our understanding and respect for the sacrifices made. It was a moving, unforgettable experience that truly brought history off the page.
USS Arizona Memorial
After exploring the exhibits, it was time for our much-anticipated visit to the USS Arizona Memorial. We gathered with our group and watched a powerful short film that set the tone and impact of the 1941 attack.
A boat ride across the calm waters of Pearl Harbor followed, the peaceful scenery a striking contrast to the tragedy that unfolded here. As the memorial came into view, anticipation gave way to quiet reverence. Floating above the sunken battleship, the white structure is simple yet powerful. Inside, we walked slowly, taking in the names of the 1,177 sailors and Marines lost that day.
The experience was deeply moving. More than a historic site, the USS Arizona Memorial is a place of honor, sacrifice, and reflection. It left us with a lasting sense of gratitude and a renewed understanding of the price of peace.
Battleship USS Missouri
After our moving visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, we boarded a shuttle to Ford Island, home to two iconic sites: the USS Missouri and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. The “Mighty Mo,” commissioned in 1944, is where Japan formally surrendered, ending WWII. As we approached the colossal vessel, its sheer size and history were awe-inspiring. Onboard, we explored the deck where sailors once manned massive artillery, the command center that oversaw key battles, and the crew’s quarters. From the massive 16-inch guns to the cramped living spaces, every inch of the ship echoed with history, immersing us in the pivotal moments that shaped the world.
Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Next, we visited the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, dedicated to the history of aviation in the Pacific during WWII. The museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft that played pivotal roles in the war. As we explored, we were captivated by the stories behind each plane, honoring the brave pilots and crew who risked everything. With interactive displays and informative exhibits, the museum offered a dynamic and educational experience, bringing the intense air battles of the Pacific to life.
Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum
After our shuttle ride, we visited the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum aboard the USS Bowfin, a legendary Balao-class submarine. Nicknamed “The Pearl Harbor Avenger,” the Bowfin symbolizes the bravery of WWII submariners. Stepping aboard, we were transported back in time, walking through the submarine’s authentic sections and paying our respects to the sailors who served. The memorial to submariners was especially moving, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Even after a full day, there’s so much more to explore at Pearl Harbor and it’s easy to see why it takes two days to fully experience. Our visit left a lasting impression, deepening our understanding of this historic site and the sacrifices made for freedom.
Things to Do on Oahu with Kids - Day 7: Beaches, Sun, Shopping & Fireworks!
With our last full day ahead, we decided to embrace every moment. We treated ourselves to shopping around Waikiki, gathering souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. Later, we relaxed at the beach, taking in our last moments of Hawaiian sun and ocean waves. We encountered some friendly sea turtles while swimming, creating a memorable experience for all, especially the girls. This delightful encounter marked a perfect end to our time in Hawaii.
That night, we returned to our balcony to enjoy a breathtaking fireworks display. Watching the colors illuminate the sky while reminiscing about our shared adventure was a fantastic way to wrap up our Hawaiian journey.
The Family Verdict
Our trip to Oahu blended adventure with relaxation, making it unforgettable. From stunning beaches to rich cultural experiences, every moment under the warm Hawaiian sun was amazing! Traveling to Oahu not only offered us the chance to discover beautiful landscapes but also to immerse ourselves in the vibrant traditions and culture of the islands.
Join our adventures at nearby Hanauma Bay, Kualoa Ranch, and North Shore. Also follow along on our Hawaiian adventures in Oahu!
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
Recommended Supplies
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